01 jetta engine problem

Hi,

I am having an issue with my 01 jetta it seems to be hard to start lately but every so often I get this weird smell and some smoke then the check engine light will come on.I went and put the car on the scanner and It came up with code p1255 which is an (Engine coolant (http://www.obd-codes.com/forums/1141-obd-codes-2000-vw-jetta--p1255-p0134pd-p0302pd.html#) Temperature sensor short to ground).

what I need know is could this short to ground problem cause these problems and how easily can it be repaired?

Thanks.

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